Nairobi, March 5, 2026 – The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) opened nominations this year for the Champions of the Earth 2026 award – the UN highest environmental award – focusing on the leaders at the forefront of the management of the ocean, an ecosystem essential to life on Earth that is increasingly under pressure.
For more than twenty years, the Champions of the Earth awards have recognized pioneers whose work has shaped environmental policies and practices around the world. The 2026 edition calls for the appointments of individuals, organizations and governments that are making efforts to protect and restore ocean health — a crucial area for climate stability, biodiversity, food security and sustainable economic development.
The ocean: essential for life
The ocean covers more than 70% of the planet, absorbs more than 90% of the excess heat caused by greenhouse gas emissions, and absorbs about a third of the carbon dioxide released by human activity. It supports a blue economy worth more than US$1.5 trillion, as well as the lives, cultures and food systems of millions of people around the world.
However, only 15% of the coasts remain ecologically intact. Pollution, habitat loss, sedimentary runoff and untreated wastewater are eroding marine ecosystems, leading to biodiversity loss and threatening communities that depend on the sea. Limited data and fragmented governance make coordinated action even more urgent.
The Champions of the Earth 2026 awards will honor leaders whose work provides solutions to restore marine and coastal ecosystems, reduce climate risk and create sustainable livelihoods.
The main axes of this year’s Champions of the Earth Prize include:
- Pollution prevention – Treat pollution from source to the sea, including wastewater, nutrients, chemicals and sediments, through solutions that connect land, fresh water, coasts and the ocean.
- Protecting and restoring ecosystems – Strengthening ocean resilience, protecting and restoring coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass and other vital habitats, as well as reducing climate risks for coastal communities.
- Sustainable Blue Economies – Support fair and sustainable livelihoods that protect nature while fostering economic opportunities.
- Science, Data and Cooperation – Expanding scientific research, data, finance and regional partnerships, including through Conventions and Action Plans on Regional Seas, to accelerate collective impact.
Categories and timeline
Appointments are open from March 5 to April 15, 2026. Individuals, organizations and government entities can be nominated in the categories Political Leadership, Inspiration and Action, Entrepreneurial Vision, and Science and Innovation. Winners will be announced at the end of 2026.
